SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 448

WHEREAS, The Fort Worth Zoo has suffered a sad loss with the death of Kambula the gorilla on February 26, 2009; and

WHEREAS, One of three male Western lowland gorillas at the zoo, Kambula had lived in the popular World of Primates exhibit since it opened in 1992; indigenous to several countries in Africa, the Western lowland gorilla is a shy and gentle creature who lives mainly on fruits, stems, and leaves; Kambula was also known as a silver-backed gorilla for his distinctive streak of silver-gray hair across his back; and

WHEREAS, Most apes in captivity start to decline in health after the age of 30, and at age 32 Kambula was the second-oldest male gorilla in the zoo; he had been in ill health for some time, and despite the best efforts of the zoo's veterinary team, they were unable to save his life; and

WHEREAS, For 17 years, Kambula was a favorite of children, families, and animal lovers of all ages, and he will long be remembered for the joy he brought to his many admirers; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby extend condolences to the staff of the Fort Worth Zoo on the death of Kambula and commend them for their continuing efforts to preserve the health and comfort of the animals under their care.

Davis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 18, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate